V Australia?

[Ben W]

Has anyone heard any news on V Australia and their plans to start flying in November? Their web site has been static for the last few months so just wondering if anyone down there had heard any news?

Thank you,

Ben

[Grant Smith]

down there had heard any news?


Ben,

When you say "down there", who/what or where exactly are you referring to?

[Lukas M]

The big day is confirmed to be sometime this week, possible Thursday, but before 1st April

[Jamie D]

Hi,

I read on airliners.net that Sir Richard is meant to be in melbourne on the 27th March for a big announcement regarding V australia and also Air Asia X. And that following this V Australia Fares will go on sale during or after Getaway that night.

J

[Lukas M]

Well, its going to be a big day then on Thursday, cant wait

[Ben W]

Ben,

When you say "down there", who/what or where exactly are you referring to?

Hi Grant,

I just mean Australia in general.

Thanks,

Ben

[Peter JB]

Ben,

When you say "down there", who/what or where exactly are you referring to?

Does it really matter? :rolleyes:

[Trevor Sinclair]

A mate of mine was phoned by Recruitment this week in Bris - dunno any further.

[Grant Smith]

Does it really matter? :rolleyes:

Well yes Peter it does, as it is geographically incorrect...

:rolleyes:

[Nick W.]

I've heard there's a B773 fix-based sim around the mascot-sydney south region, now up and running. Can anyone shed anymore light on this?

Nick

[Shameel Kumar]

One post from a respectable Aussie A.net member suggests that SFO will not be serviced any time soon..just LAX. I wouldn't be the least bit suprised if this were true considering how heavily focused QF is on LAX compared to SFO.

It's a bit of a bummer though coz I fly out that way 1 or twice a year and always head for SFO... but ah well, willing to put up with LAX if it means I get to try out V Australia or even QF's A380.

[Shameel Kumar]

Hi,

I read on airliners.net that Sir Richard is meant to be in melbourne on the 27th March for a big announcement regarding V australia and also Air Asia X. And that following this V Australia Fares will go on sale during or after Getaway that night.

J


Not sure how reliable that 'sale during or after Getaway' part is, but it does seem like Thursday will be the big day. Waiting anxiously!!

[Andrew McLaughlin]

I've heard there's an announcement in Sydney on Monday, March 31. Just waiting on the media advisory now...

[Lukas M]

Found this:

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=SfPOOnvV_jA

[Anthony T]

Just waiting on the media advisory now

Confirmed for Mon 31st at 10.00

[Lukas M]

Thank heavans we know, but is this the whole "Website Launch" or just the Branson Conference etc

Source??

[Shameel Kumar]

Found this:

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=SfPOOnvV_jA

Thanks for the link Lukas. From the looks of it, it seems like this YouTube ad' was created for the US market since it highlights all of the typical tourist-appealing Aussie icons and attractions.

Gotta say though, the V Australia 773ER in those CAD animations looks fantastic!! Can't wait for later in the year when Scott L' delivers us some early pics of the aircraft from BFI. :D

[Shameel Kumar]

Just a quick something.... having a look at the V Festival website (Link Here (http://vfestival.com.au/site/default.aspx)), the Sydney event is schedule for Saturday 29th at Centennial Park. Since V Australia will be based in Sydney, we may well get an announcement tomorrow.


Edit: Scrap that speculation. Just read at another board from a very respected member there that he's almost certain the announcement will be on Monday 31st. Branson will be up in Brisbane tomorrow to open the new Virgin Blue headquarters and also for the Virgin Blue Hanger Ball.

This particular member also stated that the first route will be SYD-LAX (as expected) and once the second aircraft comes online BNE-LAX will commence.

[Lukas M]

Just a quick something.... having a look at the V Festival website (Link Here (http://vfestival.com.au/site/default.aspx), the Sydney event is schedule for Saturday 29th at Centennial Park. Since V Australia will be based in Sydney, we may well get an announcement tomorrow.

It would be great if you were correct, as the sooner the better!!, but this whole setup has been kept under wraps and nobody knows what to expect

From The "Youtube Commercial", fake or real, its a good ad, and shows the beauties this great country has to offer:D:D:D:D

[Michael Morrison]

I dont think the ad is real... not enough branding for V Australia for a launch product.

Also I dont recall seeing the pacific blue ad that he has posted on his profile either

[Shameel Kumar]

Thank heavans we know, but is this the whole "Website Launch" or just the Branson Conference etc

Source??

Well that's a whole different kettle of fish there!!

Now that we finally (thank heavens indeed!!) know when the announcement will be made, ...and we know that they'll talk about their in-flight product, route plans and pricing structure....but whether an actual seat sale will follow the announcement is completely unknown. :confused:

We can only hope they offer some fantastic launch fares! If they do, their first 773ER will be flying-out fully loaded each and every day for the first couple of months!

[Lukas M]

The "V Australia" commercial on YOUTUBE has now been deleted, interesting as it could have been real, it seemed pretty real:D:D:D

[Erik H. Bakke]

Mmmmm....

Would be cool to get some $773 fares, in line with the aircraft type.
Though, if so was the case, I'd wish they'd got A340s instead...

[Shameel Kumar]

Ah-ha! That explains the barn-storming number of orders for the 787.. it's the most highly priced Airbus or Boeing aircraft number...more than double the profitability potential than the A330, but hey, that must be why JQ manage such low international fares I guess. See.. I knew that '8' in the 787 was special for some reason.:D

But seriously, AU$773 for a one-way fare wouldn't be too bad. I'd certainly pull out my credit card and book me a flight.. or two... or three.... or....:D

[Lukas M]

Hehe, that would be good, but i have only allowed $1400 for this sale:(:(lets hope that its enough

[Bernie P]

Well that's a whole different kettle of fish there!!

We can only hope they offer some fantastic launch fares! If they do, their first 773ER will be flying-out fully loaded each and every day for the first couple of months!

Does anyone happen to know if they have started to build these aircraft?? Or when they plan to START building them??

Thanks in advance...

[Michael Morrison]

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,23446005-3122,00.html

This article seems to suggest an announcement will be made by Branson in Los Angeles on Monday (Tuesday our time)

[Shameel Kumar]

Hmmm..maybe he's going to launch the airline in Australia on our Monday morning, then fly out to LA, and have the US launch of V Australia on Monday night (USA date/time)...because it would seem rather foolish and not exactly 'Australian' to launch V Australia outside of Australia.

[Kurt A]

VIRGIN BLUE AIRLINES MEDIA CONFERENCE

What:
Virgin Blue Airlines Media Conference

When:
Monday 31 March 2008, 10.00am

Where:
Barnet Long Room
Customs House
31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay
SYDNEY NSW

Who:
Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Group Chairman
Mr Brett Godfrey, Chief Executive Officer, Virgin Blue Group of Airlines

[Lukas M]

Ahh well, at least we didn't get tooo exited:(

http://news.smh.com.au/branson-hoping-for-usaustralia-flights/20080329-22cc.html

"Virgin boss Richard Branson says he hopes to have his airline flying between America and Australia from next year.

The UK billionaire jetted into Australia this week to attend the V Festival, which he created.

Speaking at the Sydney leg of the festival, Sir Richard said he hoped to get the flights off the ground soon.

"By next year there may even be an airline with V in it coming from America down here," he told reporters.

"Hopefully if bands want to come from the UK they can come on Virgin and maybe next year if bands want to come from America they'll be able to come on Virgin as well."

The 58-year-old entrepreneur said the details weren't finalised but "hopefully we'll get all the boxes ticked very soon".

Sir Richard said he was not interested in getting back into the record business but wanted to focus on light music.

"It's far tougher these days than it was 25 years ago and actually it's not quite as much fun," he said.

"I think with downloading, people expecting to get their music for free, ipods etc, running a music company hasn't got the same enticements," he said.

"From Virgin's point of view - music festival is the way to go."

:(:(:(:(:(:

[Michael Morrison]

LAX Schedule is now in Amadeus

SYD-LAX (Daily from 15th December)

VA1 DEP SYD 9.45PM Arrive LAX 4.30PM

VA2 DEP LAX 11.30PM Arrive SYD 9.20AM

Trying to see if there is anything else... will post if I find..


Some DJ flights are also carrying the VA code ie PERLAX

Los Angeles Int'l CA US [KLAX]
SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith NS AU [YSSY]
MON 12 Jan 2009 - 19 Jan 2009

Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Frequency | Dur'n | Dep T | Arr T | Effect | Ending | Exceptions
--------- ------ ---- --------- ---- --------- ---- ---- ----------------------------------------------------------------
VA 1 SYD 21:45 LAX 16:30 77W 0 1234567 13:45 1 B 15 Dec 14 Mar
VA 2 LAX 23:30 SYD 09:20 +2 77W 0 1234567 14:50 3 1 15 Dec 14 Mar

[Shameel Kumar]

Thanks a million for the update Michael!! :)

Regarding all that Amadeus jargon towards the end of your post, anywhere in there does it state when VA plan to begin service?

I see 15 Dec in there, but don't want to make assumptions on info/data I have no experience in interpreting.

Also, what's with the "MON 12 Jan 2009 - 19 Jan 2009" .. is that just a random week you chose to get the info' ?

[Michael Morrison]

Thanks a million for the update Michael!! :)

Regarding all that Amadeus jargon towards the end of your post, anywhere in there does it state when VA plan to begin service?


Hi Shameel..

I use gthe KVS tool which shows some airline availability etc. Basically this flight is not yet listed in the Airline systems to book. It has only been released int he Amadeus timetable (probably because Virgin have asked for it not to be shown, otherwise you owuld se it on Expedia etc)

You can also find the same info by going direct to Amadeus www.amadeus.net and going to the timetable search (dont do a fare search as it wont come up)

I looked at SYD-LAX before 15 DEC and couldnt find anything for VA so I am guessing 15 DEC is the launch date.

As for the line until 14 March, there may be a slight time change ie 5 minutes or it may be because that is as far as the amadeus system will show timetables. (ie 330 days or something)

[Shameel Kumar]

Thanks mate! Makes all that info a lot clearer. :D

Interesting that it seems like Dec 15 will be the launch date. This whole time VA talked about late Nov'..but then again, things always change in this industry, and 2 weeks off ain't bad at all.

I'm glad to hear that at least Amadeus has it from the 15th since I'm planning to fly to USA on the 20th of Dec, and then again on the 11th of Jan. V Australia here I come if their fares are good! :D

[Ricky T]

Thanks for the update Michael.

Its interesting the flight leaves SYD in the evening and gets to LAX in late afternoon. Pax would get a full day in SYD but the downside to the 16:30 arrival time at LAX means there is only minimal opportunity for connecting flights.

Oh well, we shall wait and see when V Australia will officially launch its operations.

[Lukas M]

I guess you would have to stay the night at LAX, and catch a earling morning flight, if you plan to travel on to JFK or somehwhere in that enormous continent:p

At least a small chance to sleep at the beggining of the flight as its nice and dark;)

[Shameel Kumar]

Exactly, the plus of such a late departure is that once you're on the plane, the average person will fall asleep in a couple of hours. Also, people get to spend the entire day going about their normal lives and still have ample time to catch this flight.. so it might allow more people to still go to work in the day and catch the weeknight flight out instead of having to opt for a weekend flight.
Though it's gonna suck not being able to get any good departure photos of their aircraft! :(

I'm guessing the very late departure was also done on purpose to allow VA to utilise the aircraft on domestic runs for DJ. Maybe a few hours after it's arrival from LAX it might do a SYD-PER run, come back to SYD, then off again to LAX.... much better than having the aircraft sit out all day at LAX like QF do.


Also, with the commencement of V Australia flights in December, will this mean that the Virgin Group of airlines will offer around-the-world routing?

[Lukas M]

Basically around the world yes, also I wonder if VAustralia will have onward connections with VirginAmerica??, No Doubt that VAustralia will use VirginAmerica as a branch off point, now that VirginAmerica are expanding rapidly. VirginAmerica could also do quite well out of this move in terms of Connections. I would certianly try them, i like the sound of all that "mood lightning" in their buses.

[Kelvin R]

A 4:30 pm arrival gives ample time for connections for all destinations on Virgin America.

You could connect to SEA, JFK, SFO, and Washington DC (IAD). Plenty of connections on UA and others as well. The problem with doing SYD-JFK or SYD to WAS is that you are going to either have to leave first thing in the morning or arrive first thing in the morning which ever way you go. So I don't think it matters much if the LAX-JFK segment is a red eye flight.

Of interest, what also works is a connection to LHR on VS with a 2120 dep and 1850 arrival.

[Ricky T]

I guess you would have to stay the night at LAX, and catch a earling morning flight, if you plan to travel on to JFK or somehwhere in that enormous continent:p

At least a small chance to sleep at the beggining of the flight as its nice and dark;)

And this might discoruage people going to the east-coast from using the service if an overnight stay is required. I guess QF would still retain the advantage in their ability to offer same day connection to most (if not all) major cities in the US/Canada.

[Shameel Kumar]

Basically around the world yes, also I wonder if VAustralia will have onward connections with VirginAmerica??, No Doubt that VAustralia will use VirginAmerica as a branch off point, now that VirginAmerica are expanding rapidly. VirginAmerica could also do quite well out of this move in terms of Connections. I would certianly try them, i like the sound of all that "mood lightning" in their buses.

They'd be nuts not to provide onward connections with Virgin America. I think that's pretty much assured, which will be a great thing, because as you said, Virgin America are expanding quite well.

I'll certainly look to connect with Virgin America since my final destination in USA is always SFO...and I'm sure Virgin America will have excellent prices for LAX-SFO flights.


Also, is it now official that V Australia's IATA code is indeed VA? ... so we have DJ, VS, VX and now VA..all pretty much working together :)

Ironice that Virgin's domestic operations within Australia are with 737s, while in the US they are using A320s (direct competitors)... and on the international scene VS's main long-haul aircraft is the A346, while for V Australia the aircraft of choice is the 773ER (direct competitors). :)

[Grant Smith]

Basically around the world yes, also I wonder if VAustralia will have onward connections with VirginAmerica??, No Doubt that VAustralia will use VirginAmerica as a branch off point, now that VirginAmerica are expanding rapidly. VirginAmerica could also do quite well out of this move in terms of Connections. I would certianly try them, i like the sound of all that "mood lightning" in their buses.

Lukas,

Do you work for DJ?

[Scott Lindsell]

Thanks for the link Lukas. From the looks of it, it seems like this YouTube ad' was created for the US market since it highlights all of the typical tourist-appealing Aussie icons and attractions.

Gotta say though, the V Australia 773ER in those CAD animations looks fantastic!! Can't wait for later in the year when Scott L' delivers us some early pics of the aircraft from BFI. :D


I'll be there and you should have them the same day - or a day ahead of when taken :D

[Scott Lindsell]

Basically around the world yes, also I wonder if VAustralia will have onward connections with VirginAmerica??, No Doubt that VAustralia will use VirginAmerica as a branch off point, now that VirginAmerica are expanding rapidly. VirginAmerica could also do quite well out of this move in terms of Connections. I would certianly try them, i like the sound of all that "mood lightning" in their buses.


Just out of curiosity Lukas, but what makes you say they are expanding rapidly? The fact that they are now flying or do you know something I don't?
S.

[Shameel Kumar]

I'll be there and you should have them the same day - or a day ahead of when taken :D

Hahaha... absolute legend mate!! Can't wait! Wish I could be there when she roles out of the paintshop!

[Montague S]

LAX Schedule is now in Amadeus


so it is...

[Lukas M]

Lukas,

Do you work for DJ?

I wish!

[Lukas M]

Just out of curiosity Lukas, but what makes you say they are expanding rapidly? The fact that they are now flying or do you know something I don't?
S.

Well, it hasn't even been a year in operation and they have already added two destinations on top of everything else, but hey i talk rubbish sometimes:cool:

[lloyd fox]

Apparently Sir Richard said at the ball last night that there will be a special announcement later this week which will be exciting for queenslanders.

Lloyd

Only 7 flights in Amadeus at least 10 planned.

[Lukas M]

God only knows when this "announcement" could occur, well it looks like BNE-LAX is on the cards, smart move anyway

[Michael Morrison]

Yeah - have been trauling the timetable... Cant search after mid Jan so prob starts after that

Does anyone know when the 777's re due for delivery?

[lloyd fox]

No i just think he may be a little jet lagged and not sure what day it is.

Announcement still Monday in Sydney and then followed up on Tuesday US time to spread the word over there.

Lloyd

[Lukas M]

;)The Ameadus timetable starts on 15DEC and will most likely go through to March as usual. If booking does start soon, I would say that every flight will be full, most likely ALL flights sold out, when December does come. 6-7months advance bookings is quite a smart move:D

Good to see schedules will "apparently" start around the christmas period, a good chance to jet away for christmas:D

[David Ramsay]

I'll certainly look to connect with Virgin America since my final destination in USA is always SFO...and I'm sure Virgin America will have excellent prices for LAX-SFO flights.

US$43.00 each way right now!!

[Shameel Kumar]

Does the fact that the SYD-LAX flight schedule being loaded on to Amadeus suggest that purchasing seats could become available any day now (most likely Monday night) ?

Fingers crossed!

[Lukas M]

I would say Monday Night, as it gives the media a chance to spread the word during the 6pm news etc, free publicity:D

[Shameel Kumar]

US$43.00 each way right now!!

Thanks for that David! That's a pretty darn good price to SFO. Usually you'd be hard pressed to get such a low fair to SJC or OAK let alone SFO. Now I just gotta wait on VA's launch fares.

Right now I'm planning to fly to SFO in Dec', and then fly back to SYD on the same day/night (so I'll only be in USA for a matter of hours). At the moment the cheapest way to the Bay Area that I've found is US$934 (JQ to HNL, then ATA to OAK). Returning back to SYD from SFO with QF at US$909, so total trip cost would be US$1,843. So I'm hoping that VA have good sale/launch fares.
What I'm gonna find a problem is VA's late arrival into LAX. It pretty much means I won't be able to fly into LAX, then fly up to SFO, then have enough time to meet my significant other in SFO, then catch a flight back down to LAX and get checked-in and all that in time for VA's 11.30pm departure. :(

So hopefully VA offers some nice one-way fares!! :)

[Scott Lindsell]

US$43.00 each way right now!!


I hope you're planning another SEA leg in there Dave - The Pyramid calls for a few ales. :)

[David Ramsay]

Wish I was, mate. Not even planning a trip right now, just happened across that fare on another site.

You're coming down under sometime soon, if I recall right?

[Kurt A]

VIRGIN BLUE AIRLINES MEDIA CONFERENCE

What:
Virgin Blue Airlines Media Conference

When:
Monday 31 March 2008, 10.00am

Where:
Barnet Long Room
Customs House
31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay
SYDNEY NSW

Who:
Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Group Chairman
Mr Brett Godfrey, Chief Executive Officer, Virgin Blue Group of Airlines

New addition to the Media Conference:
Mr Scott Swift, Executive General Manager – V Australia Airlines

[Lukas M]

I wouldn't advise purchasing connections too early as all airlines change schedules:mad:

[Shameel Kumar]

How easy/difficult would it be for an airline to change their scheduled time of arrival and departure. I don't mean this in terms of a last minute change, but rather this case of V Australia where there are still many months to go before the flights commence. Not totally sure about this..but wouldn't they have to buy/swap slot times and so forth?

[Shameel Kumar]

Has anyone been able to find a webcast link for today's announcement, or just an audio stream link? :confused:

Nothing new on the VA or DJ websites yet...

[Lukas M]

Qantas might attack V-Aus with an A380 annoucement today or tommorow, regarding SYD-LAX, hopefully with an attractive sale:D

[Michael Morrison]

http://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20080331/pdf/3189chjf1vnsmr.pdf

$999 return in Economy! Regular fares will be around $1899. They are also offering 32" seat pitch.


3 Class....

Flat beds in J, 40 seats in W

Infliught SMS etc will all be offered.

[Grant Smith]

Let the games begin :D

[Shameel Kumar]

http://www.vaustralia.com.au has been updated!!

EDIT: it has been shifted onto the DJ website now... weird...


Any idea as when the sale will begin? $999 inclusive of tax is bloody awesome for a return fare!!

[Kurt A]

And also...


THE VIRGIN AND THE VETERAN TAKE OFF TOGETHER!
V AUSTRALIA AND NORTHWEST AIRLINES ANNOUNCE TICKETING PARTNERSHIP

Monday 31 March 2008:

In the historic first ticketing partnership for Australia’s newest International carrier V Australia Airlines, Northwest Airlines will join forces with V Australia to offer travellers convenient access to destinations across the United States of America and Canada.

The announcement to link flight networks follows hot on the heels of the confirmation that V Australia Airlines long haul trans- Pacific services will take off with flights from Sydney to Los Angeles on 15 December 2008.

The ticketing agreement with Northwest will take effect from day one of the launch of V Australia services and will offer travellers seamless flight connections to key cities via V Australia’s launch destination of Los Angeles.

Virgin Blue Group of Airlines Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said, “This is a tremendous agreement as it means that our V Australia Guests will have access to not just Los Angeles, but all across the US and Canada with a comprehensive route network and a reputable airline partner such as Northwest.”

“It a nutshell, it means people can purchase a single ticket and then travel seamlessly with their luggage on V Australia from Sydney International Airport to any of Northwest’s destinations in North America.”

On arrival in Los Angeles, passengers transfer to Terminal 2 for their connecting Northwest flight.

The agreement has been officially signed and will go on sale in coming weeks, offering a range of benefits to travellers including single ticket purchase and full luggage through-check from point of departure to point of destination, covering Northwest’s main hub airports of Detroit, Minneapolis and Memphis. Northwest Airlines is the world’s fifth largest airline with approximately 1,500 daily departures.

Northwest Airlines Vice President of Alliances, Nat Pieper, said, “This is the first phase in our exciting new agreement with V Australia Airlines. We look forward to welcoming our new Australian partner to the US market later this year.”

He continued, “We are pleased to be the first North American airline working with V Australia to offer convenient access to a wide range of destinations for customers visiting the United States and Canada, as well as easy connections via Los Angeles for American travellers keen to visit Australia.”

[Lukas M]

Nice new website, GREAT NEW PRICES

[Montague S]

http://www.vaustralia.com.au has been updated!!

EDIT: it has been shifted onto the DJ website now... weird...


Any idea as when the sale will begin? $999 inclusive of tax is bloody awesome for a return fare!!

remember that those fares aren't valid for travel until February 2009.

[Shameel Kumar]

It says on the official ASX media release that the launch fares are available to book right now and are valid for travel between Dec 15 2008 and March 15 2009.

Do you have a link or source for your claim Montague? :confused:

[Lukas M]

Do you have a link or source for your claim Montague? :confused:

http://www.vaustralia.com.au/

[Montague S]

* *Seats are limited and may not be available at peak times or on all flights. All fares are subject to availability & include taxes, fees and surcharges. An additional charge of $15 (AUD) per Guest per booking is applicable to all fares paid by credit or charge card Tickets purchased through the Guest Contact Centre cost $50(AUD) more.
* Connecting flights between Sydney and other Australian domestic ports are operated by Virgin Blue Airlines. Any Australian domestic travel can be booked through Virgin Blue.
* ^Low Season Dates
o 01/02/09 - 31/03/09


I did do a dummy booking and it seems there are some $999 seats available in the peak period...but the next fare is $2400 on the same date.

[Alex Lui]

Nope... Booked. $1010.18 including the $15 credit card fee...

Travelling Jan 17th, returning 31st Jan.

Now just got to figure out what to do over there.

Alex.

[Trevor Sinclair]

With flights to LAX from Dec 15, internationally the launch is being concentrated on LA (Todd McKenney & Sonia Kruger) and Vancouver (Courtney Act).

[Andrew M]

A good deal $999 Return, but no specials for Business Class :(

[Lukas M]

1000 seats, well thats already $1million!, pity about the hefty credit card charge
Unfortuantly I couldn't convince my parents, is 19 too young to go to USA by myself?? Just interested on other people's thoughts:o

Bring on vancouver!!!

[Andrew M]

Yes a nice $1 Million in the bank for them, which will be well needed to help pay all the start up costs. V aim to be profitable in 2 years!

Very interested to see when the 1000 seats are all filled!

19 is not too young to go, BUT be aware the legal drinking age is 21 so that can restrict your fun and chances to meet people a little!

[Lukas M]

People wont rush into these fares as fast as the 1cent fares went though, still heaps left for March

[Montague S]

lol...most are already sold out!

[Lukas M]

"VA" FULL PRICES (non sale)
SYD=$1899
MEL=$2169:mad:
"QF" FULL PRICES (non sale)
SYD=$2264
MEL=$2346

Does anyone think that VA could do better??

[Andrew P]

Is VA a full service airline (incl food & booze), i think yes per the web site, or an I reading it wrong?

QF now has North America on sale SYD_LAX return $2146, SFO $2046

Banjo

[Lukas M]

VA are full service, not sure about entertainment in Economy, but a nice selcection of foods available in Economy, quite a big selection, and its great to see the "mood lighting"

[Shameel Kumar]

"VA" FULL PRICES (non sale)
SYD=$1899
MEL=$2169:mad:
"QF" FULL PRICES (non sale)
SYD=$2264
MEL=$2346

Does anyone think that VA could do better??


Yeh, they could have, but then again, they also have to make some money, especially since they are just starting up. Maybe they will become even more price-competitive once QF's A380s start doing the LAX run. Overall though, SYD you get nearly $400 saving..that's about on par with NZ's pricing, except VA offer non-stop service. So I think they did pretty good. I just wish their '$999' sale for the first 1000 booked seats applied to all flights...:( ...ah well, maybe next time. :)

[Kelvin R]

1000 seats, well thats already $1million!, pity about the hefty credit card charge
Unfortuantly I couldn't convince my parents, is 19 too young to go to USA by myself?? Just interested on other people's thoughts:o

Bring on vancouver!!!

I set off on my first round the world ticket on my own having turned 18 the day before. Things have changed a little now as you will need to show customs that you can support yourself while in country but as long as you have sufficient cash and accommodation booked then I would say go for it.

I would do a theme park holiday, 6 flags, disney, universal and so on. Alternatively you could head off to mexico once there. Plenty of options!

[Lukas M]

Thanks for your advice, now just need to wait for the next lot of Schedules (Mar-Oct09).

I couldn't find if V-Aus have a "Seat Selector", do they:confused:

[Montague S]

VA are full service, not sure about entertainment in Economy, but a nice selcection of foods available in Economy, quite a big selection, and its great to see the "mood lighting"

:confused:

not sure about food..they haven't even cooked a meal yet! and yes they have AVOD in economy class. :rolleyes:

[Shameel Kumar]

...and yes they will serve meals in economy class. :rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Montague S]

I'm aware they'll be serving food...just not sure if it will be a nice big selection as claimed by Lukas...try and take context into account, ok? :rolleyes:

[Lukas M]

Food Choices(as per V-Aus Booking page):
-Asian Vegetarian meal
-Child
-Baby Food
-Gluten free
-Hindu
-Muslim meal
-No Salt added meal
-Kosher
-Low Fat
-low Cholestrol
-low Sodium
-Vegetarian (latco-ovo)
-Vegetarian (non dairy)
-Diabetic
or -No preference

Fair Few Preferences!

[Andrew M]

:confused:

not sure about food..they haven't even cooked a meal yet! and yes they have AVOD in economy class. :rolleyes:

Nor will Virgin ever cook a meal :p

[Montague S]

Food Choices(as per V-Aus Booking page):
-Asian Vegetarian meal
-Child
-Baby Food
-Gluten free
-Hindu
-Muslim meal
-Kosher
-Low Fat
-low Cholestrol
-low Sodium
-Vegetarian (latco-ovo)
-Vegetarian (non dairy)
-Diabetic
or -No preference

Fair Few Preferences!

what you've highlighted is standard practice with most major carriers...I was under the impression that you were commenting on what they will be serving as main meals and snacks...

[Lukas M]

Sorry I never fly airlines that offer food for free, its usually TT or JQ for me:(

[Montague S]

Nor will Virgin ever cook a meal :p

if the food on DJ is anything to go by then their international arm better hire some good chefs, DJ domestic food offerings are appalling! :(

[Andrew M]

"VA" FULL PRICES (non sale)
SYD=$1899
MEL=$2169:mad:
"QF" FULL PRICES (non sale)
SYD=$2264
MEL=$2346

Does anyone think that VA could do better??

Of course they COULD, but why should they ?

They are cheaper than QF but will provide a better Y product with wider seats 17.2 vs 18.8. This is comparing VA to QF 744's, with QF's A380 I assume it will be similar to SQ which is 19inches. So for now a slightly wider seat

Entertainment will be similar to QF A380's no doubt

So all in all very similar to QF but a few hundred dollars cheaper

Like your :mad: post above the fare for MEL-SYD-LA being $270 more is annoying. You can get mid-week mini fares MEL-SYD-MEL for alot less than that. Personally I would love the MEL surcharge to only be say $150 more.... Then again the 777 may continue to MEL instead of the SYD stuff around transfer.

I will point this out again VA is a FULL SERVICE AIRLINE. Not like DJ, free food, booze, full seat back IFE etc etc

They are directly competing with QF

[Andrew M]

if the food on DJ is anything to go by then their international arm better hire some good chefs, DJ domestic food offerings are appalling! :(

I don't mind the DJ domestic offerings, but again we are talking about cheaper pre-packed food vs a full service airline.

I always get a sandwiches or the chicken caesar wrap being my favourite.

The HOT food on DJ is not the best and I would compare it to Air Canada food

[Andrew M]

So who has booked for the inaugural flight ? :D

[Montague S]

Of course they COULD, but why should they ?

They are cheaper than QF but will provide a better Y product with wider seats 17.2 vs 18.8. This is comparing VA to QF 744's, with QF's A380 I assume it will be similar to SQ which is 19inches. So for now a slightly wider seat

Entertainment will be similar to QF A380's no doubt

So all in all very similar to QF but a few hundred dollars cheaper

Like your :mad: post above the fare for MEL-SYD-LA being $270 more is annoying. You can get mid-week mini fares MEL-SYD-MEL for alot less than that. Personally I would love the MEL surcharge to only be say $150 more.... Then again the 777 may continue to MEL instead of the SYD stuff around transfer.

I will point this out again VA is a FULL SERVICE AIRLINE. Not like DJ, free food, booze, full seat back IFE etc etc

They are directly competing with QF

cheaper driving your car up or taking the bus between the two cities, I don't get that...its the same deal with PER-LAX on QF, you find the SYD-LAX flight at one price on the website and for some reason their domestic portion adds up to a price that you wouldn't knowingly pay.

Dec 16th on QF its $2983 return from SYD-LAX including taxes
same date except from Perth its $3600 return...

yet its only $500 odd return from Perth-Sydney domestic for the same dates.

DJ/VA cheapest offering for the same dates is $2410 return, after that its $3161

[Montague S]

I don't mind the DJ domestic offerings, but again we are talking about cheaper pre-packed food vs a full service airline.

I always get a sandwiches or the chicken caesar wrap being my favourite.

The HOT food on DJ is not the best and I would compare it to Air Canada food

yes but remember this...airline meals are usually cooked and frozen for a period of time before the flights so its essentially not fresh, I've had the wrap on DJ and can't say it was something I'd buy again.

[Sarah C]

Reading thier details, they are trying to be similar to United, just without the lounges and P Class. They are certainly a full service airline, not the traditional DJ product. For those who know UA's pricing, is V Aus cheaper or more expensive? (not the sale fare, the standard fare).

QF releasing the North America sale is basically in response to it.

[Montague S]

well their business class and premium economy fares are more in line with that of Qantas, so, I'd guess they are targeting the carrier that does the most business on the route...which is the sensible thing to do. this product is not even close to what UA offers on the their 744's, for a start UA don't have PTV in their economy class or economy plus, I could go on but the differences don't really need highlighting.

[Andrew M]

Agreed :D

UA is rubbish in Economy and will be for the next 5-10 years on the 744's. Even with the refits coming up, which they still haven't got one 744 up and running, the Y product is not changing besides maybe some new seat covers.

The only thing that saves UA is the easy upgrade policy

[Lukas M]

As they have 9months to go to the launch, if they have a few $1699, $1799 sales along the way they will be going fine.

9months to fill 3months worth of flights, nothing to hard:p

[Andrew M]

Reading thier details, they are trying to be similar to United, just without the lounges and P Class. They are certainly a full service airline, not the traditional DJ product. For those who know UA's pricing, is V Aus cheaper or more expensive? (not the sale fare, the standard fare).

QF releasing the North America sale is basically in response to it.

V Australia will have lounges - They even say they are looking into it. Problem being whose lounge are they going to use in SYD ?
QF - Ummm :eek:
SQ - Ummm well maybe actually
NZ - The only other option

They are not competing with UA they are exceeding UA.

Qantas is the competitor

Also what QF sale to North America ? I see nothing special ?

[Montague S]

Agreed :D


The only thing that saves UA is the easy upgrade policy

even then you could get unlucky and be stuck in their old business class seat...

[Michael Morrison]

They are not competing with UA they are exceeding UA.

Qantas is the competitor

Exactly - they are going after QF - especially in Y where they will actually offer more leg room.

Business will have fully flat, fully horizantal J seating as well.

[Andrew M]

Yes so yet again better than QF 744's I really dislike the Skybed, and even the look of the Skybed II for the A380 is really only flatter, not much else and not private enough.

The J suites on AC are beautiful and NZ is nearly the same. VA will be very similar again.

The problem for QF is that they need/want a First class on some routes, so how do they keep the J seats separate enough to not eat away at the First market. If QF did proper J suites like well every other major airline the need for first would pretty much dimish

[Andrew M]

even then you could get unlucky and be stuck in their old business class seat...

Yes and for the next 2 or so years that is a big problem

No way I would day $10k and HOPE to get a new seat

Much safer to fly VA, NZ, QF and get a good seat worth the $$

[Michael Morrison]

Also what QF sale to North America ? I see nothing special ?

A sale email just popped into the inbox from QF for North America.... nothing special though

Honolulu $1286
San Francisco $2046
Los Angeles $2146
New York (JFK) $2346
Vancouver $2405

[Montague S]

skybed is an embarrassment especially when they had the chance to really attack SQ with a new product for their A380. The real question is this, how long down the track will it be when QF realise their business product is outdated and then launch a costly upgrade process?

[Sarah C]

well their business class and premium economy fares are more in line with that of Qantas, so, I'd guess they are targeting the carrier that does the most business on the route...which is the sensible thing to do. this product is not even close to what UA offers on the their 744's, for a start UA don't have PTV in their economy class or economy plus, I could go on but the differences don't really need highlighting.

Thanks monty......

[Andrew M]

skybed is an embarrassment especially when they had the chance to really attack SQ with a new product for their A380. The real question is this, how long down the track will it be when QF realise their business product is outdated and then launch a costly upgrade process?

Agree again :D Geez agreeing with you too much lately, must be the new board :p

But like I hinted at before, what can QF do really ?

Business has to be below First as I mentioned

SQ seem to have done this quite well though so yes they should have followed this path perhaps. But QF know that they are never going to compete with SQ on the USA route

A quick calculation, nearly 1/2 of the 744 fleet is used on the USA route from MEL/SYD/BNE and via AKL. The competition is UA/NZ/VA none of which are serious competitors. As long as QF is slightly above these that is all that matters.

As for the Europe route I don't know enough about that to comment, but who do we have ?
EK - Inconsistant product offering, no loyalty program
BA - Qantas/BA who can tell the difference
VAtlantic - Great product IF you get the reconfigured planes, which I don't think we do down here, but strugging to fill the plane as it is.

So who else does QF really care about to compete with ?

[Montague S]

well QF's new offering in first is really equal to that of say SQ's business class in the 380 and 77W, why QF didn't go all out is beyond me? EK will bring their 380 online to Australia from early 2009 and from what I've been hearing it might even surpass SQ in the premium stakes, this will be a one-stop service via DXB on the A380 to LHR.

EK 1&2 will do DXB-LHR daily from late this year or early next year.

just look at the picture comparisons on QF and SQ websites and you can see the premium products are miles apart. why QF persist with Marc Newson is beyond me??

[Andrew M]

Again the main problem with EK is no loyalty program, the QF FF program while requiring lots of points for anything is linked to AMEX, Hertz etc etc which is great, along with all your domestic flights here.

Again QF really only care about the USA routes, as I said roughly 1/2 of the 744's are on this route at any one time. QF will be equal or better than anyone else flying this route for many many years so no need to go any better

VA will hurt QF a bit as their FF program is quite good and of course you can earn points here on DJ and AMEX are now linked in so it will only improve.

But yes the QF product is nothing special and I never look forward to the Skybed, even with the ticket is free

[Lukas M]

Qantas is having an amazing "May Sale" ex LA

Round Trip LA-SYD-LA = $US1068.74 including taxes!

Is this right???

http://www.qantas.com.au/regions/dyn/home

[Montague S]

well that QF sale isn't much chop unless you live in the USA...but it does make you wonder how much we are being raped if they can offer fares that low, seems USA-Australia is a few hundred dollars cheaper year round even with forex rate factored in.

[Andrew M]

It is always cheaper to fly from another country TO Australia :mad:

[Montague S]

I tried landing one of their much publicised specials for BA later this year...much to my disgust it was impossible and around $1000 more than the special advertised! Qantas are now selling their flights online as oneway and you pick the best two prices and it calculates your fare.

[Lukas M]

A few $999 return seats left, but not many
There are more outbound seats left, so if you mix a "V Promo", with a "V Deal", it turns out to be $1447, which is still brilliant:D, anything under $1500 to the states is just amazing:)

[Ben W]

Does anyone know when tickets will go on sale for LAX-SYD return?

Cheers,

Ben

[Ben W]

Just answering my own question. Tix just went on sale over here for $777US return.

Cheers,

Ben

[lloyd fox]

Premier Welcomes V Australia's Take-off

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh today congratulated Virgin Blue co-founders Sir Richard Branson and Brett Godfrey on the arrival of their new international airline, V Australia.

"Just as Virgin Blue, with its Brisbane HQ has been a huge boost for Queensland, I know V Australia will be an enormous success," Ms Bligh said.

"I am particularly pleased that Brisbane will gain around 100 new jobs as part of the V Australia corporate operations.

"While Sydney is well established as the long haul hub for Australia I am pleased that Brisbane's vital HQ role in the Virgin business will be further strengthened with these new corporate jobs linked to the international airline.

"Brisbane is the aviation hub for Australia and Virgin's new international airline will further strengthen our importance in this industry.

"Virgin Blue's CEO Brett Godfrey assures me that we'll all be able to do that direct from Brisbane to LA in the very near future," the Premier said.

(Government of Queensland)

[Sarah C]

A quote from Scott Rochfort:

"While it is tempting to see anything Virgin Blue does on traditional Qantas turf as an attack on the bigger carrier, it may be that it isn’t Qantas in Virgin Blue’s sights but United, which has the smaller share of the route, has prices slightly above Qantas but also has what is generally regarded as an inferior offering and a low profile on the route."

That seems surprising. I would have though UA would have been cheaper than QF across the board. Can any UA regulars confirm this?

http://aviationrecord.com/search-results.aspx?articleType=ArticleView&articleId=321

[Paul McFarlane]

Based on Richard Bransons's light hearted reaction to the question "What do you think of Qantas?" - I think it is aimed squarely at Qantas!

[Montague S]

let me put it this way then...UA is cheaper, will offer a new product that along with Virgin Australia will be a two pronged attack on Qantas' market share on the route.

I think its fairly and squarely aimed at Qantas, no doubt about it...

http://www.suitedreams.united.com/

this is UA's new offering..come to think of it...their business class could well become the best on the transpacific run and their first class suite isn't bad either.

there is also the small fact that UA offers probably the best FF scheme going, its always got seats available, easy upgrades are available and the mileage needed is far less than most competitors, its why I choose Star alliance! I've NEVER not gotten a seat with miles when I wanted it.

[Steve Jones]

will UA's new offering also include upgrades to the Y class product? Lack of AVOD PTVs on their transpacific runs is telling (would prevent me from flying them, in any case!)

[Andrew M]

That seems surprising. I would have though UA would have been cheaper than QF across the board. Can any UA regulars confirm this?


UA pricing is all over the place I have seen some silly silly prices from them at times and for the current poor product offerings I have no idea how they get away with it.

Generally though UA is SLIGHTLY cheaper than QF

VA is undercutting both of them...for now

[Andrew M]

Steve Jones: No, not real upgrade of the Y cabin at all, and on the 744's no seat back TV's either :( They are getting rid of the old projectors and putting in some new TV for overhead viewing ONLY though.

Montague S: I don't see UA as having the best J class when compared QF, AC, NZ and VA. UA's J product to me looks like Skybed II which will be on the QF A380. What do you see as being better on the UA J seats ? I am not going to call them suites as they don't look private enough

I would much rather fly AC, NZ, VA and have a nice private suite product over the UA Skybed looking product or the silly QF Skybed 1.

As for UA's First class product it looks like the same basic seat design that AC and NZ have in the J product. They also use the same "sleep on side with legs bent" photos as the seat/bed is not long enough, much like AC/NZ. The walls of the First suite are the same as AC/NZ, also the coat hook is the same. The only real differcence, which is a good thing, is that the seat is wider and there is more flat space to put all your stuff on. The AC/NZ J seats are very narrow near your elbows/head.

The way I see it and please correct me, which I am sure you will :p

UA First = Slightly better than AC/NZ Business class
UA Business = QF Business, worse than AC/NZ

[Sarah C]

Thanks Andrew

[Montague S]

Steve Jones: No, not real upgrade of the Y cabin at all, and on the 744's no seat back TV's either :( They are getting rid of the old projectors and putting in some new TV for overhead viewing ONLY though.

Montague S: I don't see UA as having the best J class when compared QF, AC, NZ and VA. UA's J product to me looks like Skybed II which will be on the QF A380. What do you see as being better on the UA J seats ? I am not going to call them suites as they don't look private enough

I would much rather fly AC, NZ, VA and have a nice private suite product over the UA Skybed looking product or the silly QF Skybed 1.

As for UA's First class product it looks like the same basic seat design that AC and NZ have in the J product. They also use the same "sleep on side with legs bent" photos as the seat/bed is not long enough, much like AC/NZ. The walls of the First suite are the same as AC/NZ, also the coat hook is the same. The only real differcence, which is a good thing, is that the seat is wider and there is more flat space to put all your stuff on. The AC/NZ J seats are very narrow near your elbows/head.

The way I see it and please correct me, which I am sure you will :p

UA First = Slightly better than AC/NZ Business class
UA Business = QF Business, worse than AC/NZ

I think UA new F & J class is modelled around ANA's new F & J class but with the emphasis being on the flat seat in a sort of cocoon and fully horizontal in J class. Though UA seems to have upped the room compared with ANA.

AC J class is nothing more than a derivative of NZ and Delta is almost identical too, just different fabric and headrests, but essentially the design is remarkably similar...Qantas would be in the most financially sound position of all those carriers but did the least in upgrading their product for the A380...makes no sense to me, what will the realistic life-span of the skybed be?

the one I'm waiting for is Emirates...

[Andrew M]

Well AC/NZ are perfect J products for me, apart from the bad food and unreliable IFE on AC. But for the price I can't complain, if I had to pay full J for AC I wouldn't. I felt sorry for all the people with faulty seats in the middle of the night, non-working reading lights yes the overhead ones etc etc.

If your lucky you get a $200 credit for your next flight.. :mad:

Yes QF have done little with the A380 really, but as I have said 1/2 their fleet goes across the Pacifc and they are similar to their competition anyways so why should they spend many more millions when they can fill their planes with an inferior product

EK - Once they have a consistant product across their fleet I would be interested

[Montague S]

interesting article...seems to confirm what others have been saying on a few different boards.

QANTAS will have $200 million wiped from its earnings when Virgin Blue's new international carrier V Australia becomes fully operational, analysts believe.

V Australia will start its first flight on the Australia-US route later this year, elbowing its way into one of the most lucrative markets in world aviation.

With only United Airlines to compete with, the trans-Pacific route has been a cash cow for Qantas for years.

Now V Australia looks set to grab a slice of the action, a move that analysts believe could add at least $100 million to Virgin Blue's annual earnings.

V Australia will connect our cities with the west coast of the US with its new Boeing 777-300ER.

Its initial price offering of $1899 for a return ticket from Sydney to Los Angeles undercuts Qantas' best fare on the route by 16 per cent.

Flights into Asia were also flagged by Virgin Group boss Sir Richard Branson at V Australia's route and fare announcement in Sydney this week.

In a research note posted yesterday, Merrill Lynch transport analyst Kevin O'Connor said the figures stacked up nicely for Virgin Blue.

"V Australia will initially fly the highly profitable Sydney-LAX route and we estimate this will add $100 million to VBA's EBITDA (pre-tax earnings) and reduce Qantas' pre-tax profits on the route by $200 million once V Australia is fully established," the Merrill note said.

"We also expect V Australia will have a significant impact on Air New Zealand's Australia-NZ-USA flights, especially at off-peak times."

The analyst retained a buy recommendation on Virgin Blue stock, setting a price target of $1.65.

Virgin Blue closed down 0.5c at $1.235, only 9c above its year low.

Macquarie Research analysts believe V Australia's introduction to the US market will cut Qantas yields on trans-Pacific routes by at least 10 per cent.

The research said Qantas was partly protected from greater losses as it derived about 56 per cent of its revenues on the US route from business and first class customers.

It also said that Qantas wouldn't absorb V Australia's low fare blow without retaliating.

"We expect Qantas will respond to V Australia's launch with similar fares over the first few months of the launch period," the note said.

Despite the pressure, the analysts saw no reason to reassess its Qantas rating, which remains at outperform with a price target of $5.45.

Qantas shares retreated 6c yesterday to close at $3.87.

http://www.news.com.au/business/story/0,23636,23468559-462,00.html?

[Lukas M]

Does anyone know when tickets will go on sale for LAX-SYD return?

Cheers,

Ben

Yes, they have!!

Los Angeles to Sydney $ 777 USD
Los Angeles to Adelaide $ 1099 USD
Los Angeles to Brisbane $ 999 USD
Los Angeles to Canberra $ 999 USD
Los Angeles to Cairns $ 1179 USD
Los Angeles to Melbourne $ 999 USD
Los Angeles to Gold Coast $ 999 USD
Los Angeles to Perth $ 1357 USD


http://www.vaustralia.com/?siteselect=1

[Shameel Kumar]

And also...

THE VIRGIN AND THE VETERAN TAKE OFF TOGETHER!
V AUSTRALIA AND NORTHWEST AIRLINES ANNOUNCE TICKETING PARTNERSHIP

Monday 31 March 2008:

In the historic first ticketing partnership for Australia’s newest International carrier V Australia Airlines, Northwest Airlines will join forces with V Australia to offer travellers convenient access to destinations across the United States of America and Canada.

The announcement to link flight networks follows hot on the heels of the confirmation that V Australia Airlines long haul trans- Pacific services will take off with flights from Sydney to Los Angeles on 15 December 2008.

The ticketing agreement with Northwest will take effect from day one of the launch of V Australia services and will offer travellers seamless flight connections to key cities via V Australia’s launch destination of Los Angeles.

Virgin Blue Group of Airlines Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said, “This is a tremendous agreement as it means that our V Australia Guests will have access to not just Los Angeles, but all across the US and Canada with a comprehensive route network and a reputable airline partner such as Northwest.”

....




Anyone have any idea as to when we will be able to book flights with connections in/out of LAX with V Australia and Northwest? :confused:

I'm still planning a trip to SFO, but my baggage weight will be above any US domestic airline's limits, so I'm waiting for an SYD-LAX-SFO routing with VA and NW.

In that press release it states 'in the coming weeks' ... but anyone with more specific date??

Also, any idea as to when we may see VA's fare on website such as Expedia and so forth?

[Lukas M]

Might have to wait until they do their further dated schedules, as not many airlines have their schedules running through to MAR09;) But we will wait and see

[Nick W.]

Panasonic Avionics Corporation announced that V Australia is the first eXPhone customer. Panasonic is teaming with AeroMobile to provide mobile phone technology onboard the aircraft. Now passengers can safely send and receive voice and SMS messages via their personal mobile phones.


(live-PR.com) - HAMBURG, GERMANY - 31 March 2008 –AeroMobile, the pioneering provider of inflight mobile phone services, and Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the market-leading in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems provider, have signed an agreement with V Australia, the new Australia-based international airline, to provide the technology for mobile phone and BlackBerry/PDA use on board its new Boeing 777 aircraft.



The AeroMobile service will enable V Australia’s passengers to send and receive SMS text messages via their mobile phones, and also use GPRS devices such as BlackBerrys®, Palm Treos® and mobile data-enabled PDAs exactly as they are used on the ground.

Panasonic eXPhone system incorporating AeroMobile’s technology is planned to be installed on all the Boeing 777-300ERs that V Australia has on order, and would be available on all aircraft for entry into service. The first aircraft are due for delivery prior to the start of operations between Australia and the USA planned later this year, making V Australia the first airline in the world to commence mobile phone service across its entire fleet. The major components of the Panasonic eXPhone system are planned to be installed during aircraft manufacture by Boeing.

V Australia and AeroMobile are working closely with the regulatory and government authorities in Australia and the USA to gain the necessary regulatory approvals to ensure the service operates in accordance with all regulatory and legal requirements.

Virgin Blue Group of Airlines Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said, “This is state-of-the-art technology and we are pleased V Australia will be the only airline operating the trans-Pacific route to offer this service. It is part of our strategy to provide Guests with the freedom to do what they want when they want, whether it be SMS and emails, on-demand movies or eating when they are hungry. It’s about freedom of choice and giving travellers the option to stay in touch while in the air”.

”Panasonic believes in the network of people,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer at Panasonic Avionic Corporation. “Our long-term vision is providing solutions that keep passengers connected. We are delighted V Australia is our first customer for our eXPhone solution.”

Bjorn-Taale Sandberg, Chief Executive Officer of AeroMobile, says: “We are delighted to enter into this partnership with V Australia and to welcome the first customer for our relationships with Panasonic and Boeing. The desire to communicate whilst on board flights is growing strongly across the world, both for leisure and business purposes, and we look forward to providing our personal communications services for V Australia’s passengers.”

AeroMobile technology ensures that passenger mobile phones and other communications devices operate at their minimum power settings thereby allowing their safe use on aircraft, avoiding interference with ground-based telecoms networks. The system will be linked to the ground using Inmarsat’s latest satellite communications system, SwiftBroadband, as soon as that system is introduced in the Australian and Pacific regions in 2009. SwiftBroadband provides higher satellite communications capacity and bandwidth allowing all cellular and wireless data applications to be supported. V Australia will utilise AeroMobile’s unique capability to operate over Inmarsat’s current Swift64 satellite service until the new SwiftBroadband service is available.

V Australia will benefit from the unrivalled experience that AeroMobile has already gained in providing mobile communications services to airline passengers. This includes various features built into the AeroMobile/eXPhone technology and effective communications with passengers to ensure that passengers use the service in the most appropriate manner for the inflight environment.

- Ends -

About AeroMobile
AeroMobile Limited is a UK-based company owned by ARINC Inc and Telenor ASA. It has been pursuing the objective of allowing the safe use of passengers own mobile phones and PDAs since 2003 in response to market demands.

AeroMobile is the first in-flight mobile technology to be commercially available and first flew in June 2005 on Boeing’s 777-200LR ‘Worldliner’ demonstrator aircraft. In April 2007, AeroMobile implemented a trial service on domestic flights within Australia. This evaluation project, supporting GSM text messaging and GPRS data services, continued until January 2008 having operated on over 1,000 flights.

AeroMobile is teamed with Panasonic Avionics Corporation, the Panasonic’s market-leading in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems provider, to offer the AeroMobile aircraft technology under the eXPhone brand as an integral part of Panasonic’s IFE systems.

For more information, visit www.aeromobile.net

About V Australia
V Australia Airlines is Australia’s newest International airline set to launch flights between the Australia and the United States of America from December 2008. It is part of the Virgin Blue Group of Airlines based in Australia and will operate a fleet of brand new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on the trans-Pacific route. The airline will initially take-off with direct daily flights between Sydney and Los Angeles with more routes to follow shortly after its launch. For further information, visit www.vaustralia.com or www.virginblue.com.au

About Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Panasonic Avionics Corporation is the world's leading supplier of in-flight entertainment and communication systems. The company’s best-in-class solutions, supported by professional maintenance services, fully integrate with the cabin enabling airlines to deliver the ultimate travel experiences with a rich variety of entertainment choices, resulting in improved quality communication systems and solutions, reduced time-to-market and lower overall costs.

Established in 1979, Panasonic Avionics serves over 200 customers worldwide and provides systems on over 3,700 aircraft. Headquartered in Lake Forest, California, the company employs over 2,600 employees with operations in 80 locations worldwide. For additional information, please visit www.panasonic.aero.

Panasonic Avionics Corporation is a subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Matsu****a Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (NYSE: MC). Additional information on Matsu****a Electric and Panasonic is available at www.panasonic.com.




Live P-R

[Paul McFarlane]

Err.. Nick - you missed the exact same article 3 or 4 posts above?

[Andrew P]

article 3 or 4 posts above?

below for me, better to have newest post at the top IMHO

Banjo

[Nick W.]

Err.. Nick - you missed the exact same article 3 or 4 posts above?

I don't see a repeated post?!? ;)

[Peter T Syd]

I think this is very big news for Australian Aviation and in some ways it will be a blow to Qantas earnings.
Personally I think Branson will wait until Qantas shoot the first shot with pricing as Branson loves to sell his product via cheap seats as it gives him free publicity and is much cheaper than paying for advertising and commercials.
Also on another note Virgin Money will not renew their Mastercard with Westpac, and in 2009 Westpac will migrate all the cards back to Westpac. Once again it shows that Virgin attempt to get into Financial Services has failed on every front, both Credit Card and Mortgages...which was a real disaster..

[Lukas M]

Early to Mid March you can still grab a $995 return fare, weird as they are apparently "sold out":rolleyes:. "There's still a chance;)"

[D Chan]

this is UA's new offering..come to think of it...their business class could well become the best on the transpacific run and their first class suite isn't bad either.

From what I have heard during my time at UA check-in, Sydney was going to be one of the last international routes to get the new product. The new product brings their service back to international standard, but sadly the ageing interior of the 744s will be a let down (at the moment they look terrible inside). One of the let-downs is the Flight Attendants (the female ones) - most of which are probably above 50 and poorly-groomed, the other is the reliability of their 744s (which is shockingly bad for some reason).

there is also the small fact that UA offers probably the best FF scheme going, its always got seats available, easy upgrades are available and the mileage needed is far less than most competitors, its why I choose Star alliance! I've NEVER not gotten a seat with miles when I wanted it.

Mileage plus is indeed a great FF scheme. It's probably one of the reasons why UA is still flying today despite the sub-standard products across all cabins (the other reasons are UA's network and corporate clients e.g. major companies). Global service members are treated like 'living gods' by all customer service staffs.

Regarding the available seats / upgrades issue - that's not always the case ex-Sydney, it depends on the loads for that particular day. Friday and Saturday are usually quite busy. When the classes are full it is really hard to upgrade anyone (someone else might be doing the same thing on the next check-in counter!!). LAX flights are more usually fuller than SFO flights.

btw upgrade by miles on UA is either 15,000 or 30,000 depending the booking class - this is a 1 class upgrade by miles. (sorry for the sidetrack)

back to topic..

I'm glad we'll see more 773ERs at Sydney and it's good for Branson to ditch his '4 engines 4 long haul' policy. Another thing to watch for is when Qantas begins deploying their A380s to LAX.

[Andrew M]

From what I have heard during my time at UA check-in, Sydney was going to be one of the last international routes to get the new product.

If this is indeed true and I think that it probably it, its another reason why UA are just not serious about Australia anymore!

[Shameel Kumar]

Don't know if this has been discussed or mentioned in their press release/s, but will V Australia offer in-seat power for Economy-class travellers?

I had a look at the descriptions of each of their 3 travel classes, and only Business seems to have in-seat laptop power... but has there been any word on Economy getting this feature too?

Seems a little suprising that Economy won't get in-seat power, because QF will have this feature on their A380, and more and more airlines with new aircraft are offering this as a standard feature for Economy travellers - eg: Virgin America.

[Andrew M]

I would say Yes, as they are offering everything else and for all major operators its now becoming standard to offer Laptop power in Economy

Air Canada have it on all their 777's !

[Shameel Kumar]

I hope so mate, and I agree, it is becoming a standard feature, especially on new build long-haul aircraft. Just on their website, in-seat laptop power is only given a mention under their 'Business Class' section and not mentioned in Y+ or Y class descriptions. :o

Nonetheless, still many months before they launch, so more information related to their in-flight service and amenities will become available. :)

[Andrew M]

Well they are competing with Qantas and the A380's really, the old 744's won't be around in 5-8 years!

However, like you said they haven't mentioned it in Y+ or Y which is a bit strange. I would definately say it would be a Y+ feature it simply has to be there.

Alot of their information is still vague as they are no doubt still signing off on everything and finalising the small things.

We will see in a few months no doubt!

Just waiting for their next launch now :D

[Shameel Kumar]

Just waiting for their next launch now :D

Not sure what you mean there Andrew? Are you referring to BNE-LAX? ... or do you know something that most of us don't...? :)

[Michael Morrison]

Not sure what you mean there Andrew?


I presume we will have a few more route launches in the coming months and I would also guess their will be a product launch for J, Y+ etc

[Andrew M]

Shameel Kumar: What Michael Morrison said is correct!

What we have seen is just stage 1 of their launch, from all accounts it went very well!

Next I would guess is the BNE-LAX route

Personally, all we have seen is the Y launch, and I am still hoping for a Y+ and J launch as well. However, not sure if this will happen, but at the same time not sure that people are going to book a full J fare unless some publicity occurs at the same time.

I currently have 2 x J seats on QF MEL-LAX-BNE-MEL for Jan/Feb 09 booked on reward points. If VA have a good J sale with say 2 for 1, I would cancel the QF Award tickets MAYBE..... With the upcoming "enhancements" to the QF FF program it would be hard to say either hang onto the current seats that I have of fly with VA IF they have a J sale.

First things first, wait and see IF VA have a J seat sale/launch!

[Shameel Kumar]

Thanks for the heads up Andrew and Michael :)

I can gladly say I've just finished booking a LAX-SYD return trip with V Australia. :D

All the hype and anticipation...now I can relax in comfort knowing I got my ticket! I'll be on the Sunday 21st December flight out of LAX, so if anyone else here ends up on that, let me know. :)


Can't wait!! :D

[Lukas M]

Qantas now offering an attractive $1881 return fares ex Mel, $1899 ex Syd, and yes to LAX, and SanFran!!

Qantas isn't going to give up the price fight this early, I would expect another V'Aus announcement soon, regarding BNE mabye?

[Shameel Kumar]

Quick question for those who have booked with V Australia and are Virgin Velocity rewards members.... have you been able to get points for your V Australia booking yet, or have Virgin Blue not created that facility yet for V Aust' flights?

Just curious.. looking into getting 1-time Lounge Access while waiting at LAX. :)

[Andrew M]

They have not announced lounge access details at this stage

[Andrew M]

I can gladly say I've just finished booking a LAX-SYD return trip with V Australia. :D



I also see that you have booked SYD-AKL-LAX on NZ as per the other forum :p

[Shameel Kumar]

I also see that you have booked SYD-AKL-LAX on NZ as per the other forum :p

Haha... smarty pants! :p
Was hoping to get some good news about the exit rows, but nope, changed my mind now! :(


Yep, my trip/s is as follows:

1. a) SYD-AKL-LAX with Air New Zealand
1. b) Connect with American Airlines LAX-FAT (Spend 5 days over there)

2. a) Either SFO or SJC - LAX with hopefully Virgin America
2. b) Connect on to LAX-SYD with V Australia (can't wait!!)

Spend 3 weeks in Sydney, and then migrating to USA.

3. a) Fly V Australia again SYD-LAX (bye bye Australia)
3. b) Connect LAX-SFO with hopefully again Virgin America or Alaska Airlines


So that'll be a crazy 4 weeks of flying!! :eek:




They have not announced lounge access details at this stage

Well we know that V Australia will operate out of T2 at LAX, so I'm guessing they'll share with Virgin Atlantic's Lounge, so I'm hoping that by the time they begin flying there will be some Lounge arrangement at LAX. If so, then i'll look to use my Rewards points to gain one-time access since departure will be near-on midnight.

[Andrew M]

:p:p

Yes V Australia will have lounge access, as it would be a very bad move not to!

NZ is a great airline but their seating policy is much like QF's if not more strict!

[Shameel Kumar]

:p:p

Yes V Australia will have lounge access, as it would be a very bad move not to!

I agree :)
I'm just waiting for them to allow V Australia passengers to receive Velocity rewards points, because at the moment you can only gain points when you fly Virgin/Polynesian/Pacific Blue.

I sure hope they do, because LAX T2 could get mighty boring by night time for an Economy passengers like myself. :(



NZ is a great airline but their seating policy is much like QF's if not more strict!

Damn straight they're a great airline! Prefer them over QF any day...but I'm hopeful that VA will be able to match NZ's level of service and in-flight amenities.
Taking photos while in-flight is more important than the unlimited legroom of an exit-row, so bye-bye to exit row seating and hello to seat 64A or K for my NZ 744 flight! :D

[Michael Morrison]

you will earn velocity points with V Australia.... go to velocityrewards.com.au for earn rates.

Points will be credit AFTER you take the flights

[Shameel Kumar]

you will earn velocity points with V Australia.... go to velocityrewards.com.au for earn rates.

Points will be credit AFTER you take the flights


Oh boy... there goes my hopes for lounge access... baa-humbug :(


Ah well... thanks for clearing up my confusion Michael. :)

[Andrew M]

BNE flights due to be launched any day I have heard ;)

[Steve Jones]

Press release about engineering contract would suggest BNE-LAX is on the cards:

Under the long-term contract, SIA Engineering will provide the airline with services that include transit and light maintenance checks, defect rectification, cabin maintenance, spares support, component repair and logistics management in Brisbane, Sydney and Los Angeles.

[Craig Murray]

BNE-LAX is on the cards:

V Australia billboard advertising is in place around Brisbane that clearly states daily services from Brisbane to Los Angeles commencing in Nov (or maybe it's Dec 08) subject to approval.

[Michael Morrison]

hmm I owuld have thought they would do some pr launch, rather than just put up billbaords... perhaps their media company made a boo boo

[Andrew C]

Looks like V Australia 777 work will be done OS.


Virgin offshoot takes work overseas

Steve Creedy, Aviation writer | April 22, 2008

AUSTRALIA'S newest international airline will send its maintenance work offshore to a company linked to potential trans-Pacific rival Singapore Airlines.

Virgin Blue offshoot V Australia said yesterday it had entered a five-year, $S90 million ($70.3 million) fleet management contract with SIA Engineering to maintain its start-up fleet of seven Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

V Australia plans to start operations between Sydney and Los Angeles in December.

The move comes after Virgin joined Qantas in a concerted campaign to keep Singapore Airlines off the Pacific Route.

The start-up has been cited by both the Howard and Rudd governments as the major reason for not opening up services to the US to the Singaporeans. It also comes as Qantas has been under consistent attack from unions for sending work overseas.

Virgin said the contract would see SIA Engineering provide V Australia with a wide range of fleet management program services. These would include transit and light maintenance checks, defect rectification, cabin maintenance, spares support, component repair and overhaul.

They would also include "logistics management" in Brisbane and Sydney, through its Brisbane-headquartered Aircraft Maintenance Services Australia subsidiary, and Los Angeles.

Virgin spokeswoman Heather Jeffery said the airline sought expressions of interest from a wide variety of organisations with Boeing 777 experience.

She said SIA Engineering was successful for a combination of reasons, including capability, vast experience, the ability to service the airline's needs in Australia and the flexibility they would establish in LA.

Ms Jeffrey denied there was any irony in the decision to link with a Singaporean organisation. She said it was simply a case of a professional customer-supplier relationship based on experience on 777 type and an independent assessment.

"Just as ANZUS, Air New Zealand's engineering maintenance subsidiary, is working on some of the fit-out of V Australia's 777s, the independent engineering organisations of most major airlines tender competitively for third-party incremental work," she said.

Singapore Airlines said last night the contract did not mean it was looking at Toll Holdings' 63 per cent stake in Virgin Blue.

Spokesman Stephen Forshaw said he was sure the contract was signed on the basis that SIA Engineering was the best firm for the job, given its extensive experience maintaining his airline's 777 fleet.

Meanwhile, Tiger Airways yesterday claimed its entry into the Australian market was a major factor in a 14 per cent year-on-year growth in domestic traffic at Melbourne Airport. "It just goes to show when a true low-fare carrier comes to town, the community is the big winner -- not only from the additional capacity that Tiger Airways has put into the market but also the competitive response from the incumbents."

Tiger also released group traffic figures for the year ending March 31 showing an 82.7 per cent increase in passengers carried in fourth quarter compared to the previous year.

[Marty H]

Looks like V Australia 777 work will be done OS.

Seems logical dont you think seeing as there are no other operators in Australia that operate the B777 that could offer maintenace and be alot cheaper than V Australia setting up their own B777 maintenace factilites for seven aircraft.

[Michael Morrison]

V Australia billboard advertising is in place around Brisbane that clearly states daily services from Brisbane to Los Angeles commencing in Nov (or maybe it's Dec 08) subject to approval.

I read somewhere else the same billboards are in MEL, so perhaps they are advertising the service as a connecting one...

[Lawrie L]

ok...BTW

Sorry, I didn't read all of them but I have a question to ask you.

Will there be free inflight meals for the Y class pax between SYD and LAX?

[Michael Morrison]

Will there be free inflight meals for the Y class pax between SYD and LAX?


Yes - they are a FULL SERVICE airline.

[Andrew M]

No idea what has happened to the non-stop BNE flights :(

[Lukas M]

No idea what has happened to the non-stop BNE flights :(
They said a few months back they would announce some more routes in "the coming weeks", which will turn out to be the "coming years"

[Andrew M]

It won't be coming years, they have several aircraft to fill that will be flying in 2009 and one route alone will not do that!

[Lukas M]

Found this interesting article, so it looks like most things will be Sydney based. I do see them struggling on that Sydney-Singapore run though

After India, Branson is moving on to Australia. Later this year he will launch V, an airline that will fly between Sydney and Los Angeles, San Francisco, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, linking with existing Virgin Atlantic services.
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/consumer_goods/article3998893.ece

[Michael Mak]

After India, Branson is moving on to Australia. Later this year he will launch V, an airline that will fly between Sydney and Los Angeles, San Francisco, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, linking with existing Virgin Atlantic services.
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/to...cle3998893.ece
SYD-HKG is another interesting one, VS is already on that route. Doesn't VS codeshare with SQ to SIN?

[Mark Howarth]

G'day Lukas,

Why would they be "struggling" on the SYD-SIN route?.. what facts back up your statement? Don't you think the bean counters would of thought that if they were going to "struggle" then they would not consider that route?

Cheers
Mark

[Lukas M]

Well with all those SQ and QF flights, and the 380 on this route, I think capacity is already streched enough on this route. I personally wouldn't pick anyone else over SQ and there A380 atm, unless a decent deal was on offer of course

How many daily flights to SIN all up now ex SYD?? 7,8??

[Rhys Xanthis]

i count 7 today.

[Andrew M]

Would be nice if they announced more than just the SYD-LAX flights :confused:

[Radi K]

In good time Andrew...in good time..

[Mark Grima]

A mate of mine from work was in LA just a couple weeks ago on a sales trip talking to plenty of American Tour Operators and he was saying the V Australia is almost unheard of over there. It seems as though they know it is the Australians who will fill the flights and in the early stages are not fighting hard in the US for sales. I am sure this will change but was interesting to hear.

Cheers

M

[Adam P.]

unless a decent deal was on offer of course

Aha!

I can see a marketing strategy here. C'mon, V Australia, offer a decent deal so one Lukas Mahoney will choose you!:rolleyes:

[Lukas M]

I see VA has bumped up economy SYD-LAX $100 to $1999 return

[Malcolm Parker]

Just announced. From 01March V australia will be launching 3 times weekly BNE-LAX. Further details to follow.

[Steve Jones]

and $1699 return fares up for sale

[Mark Howarth]

Launch Fare - 1,234 seats at $1234 Return!
What a Price!:)

[Michael Morrison]

Brisbane - Los Angeles

TUE/THUR/SAT
10:50 07:00 VA7


Los Angeles - Brisbane

SUN/TUE/THUR
22:30 05:40 +2 VA8

[David Knudsen]

Article Here (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/travel/fly-brisbanela-for-1234-return/2008/07/04/1214951007673.html) on Brisbanetimes.com.au about the BNE-LAX launch.

[Rhys Xanthis]

I got $1470 return from Perth =O

[Andrew M]

Article Here (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/travel/fly-brisbanela-for-1234-return/2008/07/04/1214951007673.html) on Brisbanetimes.com.au about the BNE-LAX launch.

According to the pic on a 737 with Live2Air

Bit cramped for my liking :p:p:p:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[lloyd fox]

Yankee Doodle Dandy - V Australia announces direct Brisbane - Los Angeles flights
Friday, 4 July 2008

E Blackboard news




Sunshine state to city of angels for $1234* return

V Australia celebrates American Independence Day by announcing direct flights between Brisbane and Los Angeles. New flights to offer travellers freedom of choice from 1 March 2009 - $1234* return economy fares on sale

Australia’s newest international airline, V Australia, has announced it will launch direct flights between Brisbane, Queensland and Los Angeles, California, from early next year. Queensland Premier, the Hon. Anna Bligh, joined V Australia Executive General Manager, Scott Swift, to reveal the news while on a site tour of Virgin Blue’s soon-to-be-opened brand new Head Office in Brisbane.

Brisbane-Los Angeles is the second route to be announced for V Australia which will take off on its inaugural flight between Sydney and Los Angeles on 15th December 2008^.

V Australia will launch three flights a week between Brisbane and Los Angeles from 1st March 2009^. The carrier will operate Boeing 777-300ER aircraft configured to a three class cabin offering International Business Class, International Premium Economy Class and International Economy class.

V Australia Executive General Manager, Scott Swift, said, “We are excited to announce Brisbane as V Australia’s second destination. This will be tremendous for Virgin Blue’s home state of Queensland and will bring new opportunities for Queenslanders to travel to the USA. Importantly, it will also provide a direct link from the USA to Queensland and with that, increased business and tourism dollars for the state.”

V Australia will direct its third 777-300ER aircraft to the Brisbane-Los Angeles route and carried out extensive research before deciding to commit the resources to operating a trans-Pacific flight to and from Brisbane. Only one other airline currently operates direct services between the two cities, making it ripe for competition.

Scott Swift continued, “Sydney-LA may be the busiest route between Australia and Los Angeles but V Australia is also eager to give the Brisbane-Los Angeles route a red hot go and we are keen to help ramp up visitor numbers to the state of Queensland.”

Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh said, “I am delighted that V Australia has identified the Brisbane-LA route as having strong potential in terms of passenger growth and we welcome V Australia’s vote of confidence in Queensland. Virgin Blue has already delivered significant benefits to this state in terms of domestic tourism and resulting business and economic spin-off’s. No doubt, the new V Australia direct flight will do the same.”

Premier Bligh added, “Providing direct access for US travellers to Brisbane is going to be critical in luring more visitors to experience the attractions of South East Queensland and then travel onwards to other world famous Queensland destinations like Cairns and the Whitsundays via Virgin Blue’s domestic flights.”

V Australia will initially introduce three direct flights a week between Brisbane and LA on a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and is confident its attractive fares, convenient direct flight and Virgin style product and people will prove a successful formula.

To kick off the new service, V Australia today announced 1,234 economy seats from 19 destinations in Australia to Los Angeles (via Brisbane or Sydney) for the return fare of $1234* return inclusive of all taxes and charges of approximately $415 (available only on the Internet). The sale fare is available from 2pm today until sold out.

Every day return economy fares will start from $2087 return which is 17% lower than the current lowest available published fare on the route for the same travel period (as at 9am Friday 4 July 2008).

V Australia is currently undergoing a recruitment drive for International Cabin Crew in preparation for the upcoming launch and also recently commissioned a $14-million 777-300ER aircraft simulator to conduct pilot training in Sydney.

^ Subject to regulatory approval.

* Launch fare on sale from 2pm AEST Friday 4 July 2008 until sold out for travel between 1 March – 7 April 2009 and 29 April -31 May 2009. A credit card surcharge of an additional $15 per person per booking is applicable. Terms and conditions apply. The launch fare may not be available on all flights.

VA 007 BNE-LAX WED,FRI,SUN 1135 -0700
VA 008 LAX-BNE MON,WED,FRI 2230-0655 + 2DAYS.

[Andrew M]

Tempted to book a one week USA trip for my bday in May

Hmmmmm

[Shameel Kumar]

So what's the latest on V Australia's first 777-300ER ?

Is it still in the production line? or being painted soon, or being fitted-out?


Scott L or any others have any updates to share about this (in terms of their aircraft, not the latest news about possible flights to Sth. Africa)? :)

[Michael Morrison]

It is not due for delivery until the end of October so I dont think it has been put together yet.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

It is not due for delivery until the end of October so I dont think it has been put together yet.

Working back from this, if delivery is late October, then it will probably be rolled out and painted in early October, which means it'll enter the factory production line as a recognisable (albeit, in large pieces) 777 in early to mid September.

Boeing says a 777 typically takes 3-4 weeks to travel through the factory, although large components of VA's first jet are likely already in place at Everett reading to slot into the line when needed.

Cheers

[Shameel Kumar]

Working back from this, if delivery is late October, then it will probably be rolled out and painted in early October, which means it'll enter the factory production line as a recognisable (albeit, in large pieces) 777 in early to mid September.

Boeing says a 777 typically takes 3-4 weeks to travel through the factory, although large components of VA's first jet are likely already in place at Everett reading to slot into the line when needed.

Cheers

Thanks for the info guys :)

I thought it'd take a little longer than that considering the frame had to be put together, then the paint scheme applied, then the interior fitted, and then a couple of test flights before a ceremonial delivery. Anyhoot, getting closer and closer. :D

Soon we'll have 3 x 777-300ER's at SYD... ah, music to my ears!! :D

[Nigel C]

I thought it'd take a little longer than that considering the frame had to be put together, then the paint scheme applied, then the interior fitted, and then a couple of test flights before a ceremonial delivery.

Remember, it IS a Boeing 777, not an Airbus A380.;)

[Shameel Kumar]

Working back from this, if delivery is late October, then it will probably be rolled out and painted in early October, which means it'll enter the factory production line as a recognisable (albeit, in large pieces) 777 in early to mid September.

Boeing says a 777 typically takes 3-4 weeks to travel through the factory, although large components of VA's first jet are likely already in place at Everett reading to slot into the line when needed.

Cheers

Remember, it IS a Boeing 777, not an Airbus A380.;)

Haha... good point there Nigel. :D

Yeh, I know, it won't exactly be one of the newest 777s to hit the skies, but you can be sure that V Australia/Virgin will create some fanfare to firstly promote the new airline, and secondly to try and take some gloss off QF's A380 inauguration.

And it doesn't matter if there are only 10 people out there waiting for the first V Aust' 77W (as opposed to the hundred or so 'spectators' for SQ's A380) I'll still be just as excited waiting for its arrival.

I'm glad as it is that SQ have a 77W operating into SYD, and TG changing to a 77H...so the more 777-300/ERs the better I say! :D

[Scott Lindsell]

So what's the latest on V Australia's first 777-300ER ?

Is it still in the production line? or being painted soon, or being fitted-out?


Scott L or any others have any updates to share about this (in terms of their aircraft, not the latest news about possible flights to Sth. Africa)? :)

Hi Shameel,
No sign of any part of her yet inside the factory but things move pretty quickly up here. I'll be there when she's painted for sure. I'll update you guys when I see something!
Scott.

[Shameel Kumar]

Thanks for the quick heads-up Scott. :)

I'll keep a keen eye on your Flickr photos.

[Shameel Kumar]

I just came across this short video about V Australia on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_99rA7s2aH8

It's a quick promo' interview with Mathias Friess who is the General Sales Manager for V Australia. He mainly talks about connectivity with Virgin Blue and so on..but he also briefly talks about their Business Class offering. This video also includes computer-generated images of V Australia's Business Class seats and seating arrangement, and a quick flash of their Economy seats (didn't really see any Premium Economy seats in the clip, but I could have missed them).

All this time we haven't had any solid info about their seating, but this video gives us a bit more insight about how V Australia's 777-300ERs will be on the inside.

:)

EDIT: Actually, if you have a keen interest in V Australia, then you might want to bookmark the following website and keep an eye out on it for any further updates:
http://www.youtube.com/user/VirginBlueVideos

[Rob H]

First aircraft is under construction, photos were released in the last update to DJ staff last week.

[Andrew M]

IF that video is to be believed, they are going to be using the Skybed MK II design :mad::mad::mad::mad:

I recall someone saying that the Virgin/AC/NZ suites couldn't be used by V Australia!

[Kelvin R]

I understand that skybed MKII is going to be 180 flat and the V Aust seats don't look 180 flat but 170 flat which would make them the same as the current skybed?

[Rhys Xanthis]

I understand that skybed MKII is going to be 180 flat and the V Aust seats don't look 180 flat but 170 flat which would make them the same as the current skybed?

Features:

* Freedom and privacy are yours with abundant personal space delivered by V Australia’s fully horizontal flat bed seat.
* Extraordinary legroom of 1.95 metres (77 inches).
* Panasonic Audio and Video on demand in-flight entertainment system which boasts a 30.7 cm (12.1-inches) screen in your seatback, together with the superior sound quality and relaxation delivered by noise cancelling headsets.
* Sleep soundly in your seat which converts to a 1.88 metre (six-foot-two) long fully horizontal flat bed.
* Keep in touch and up to date during your flight with revolutionary email, PDA and mobile phone text message AeroMobile connectivity technologies.
* Mood lighting throughout your cabin to create an ambience to match the different phases of your flight.
* Laptop power and USB port connections for your convenience.


They're the features in business straight from the VAus website.

[Andrew M]

I understand that skybed MKII is going to be 180 flat and the V Aust seats don't look 180 flat but 170 flat which would make them the same as the current skybed?

Yes I noticed that, hoping that V dont' go with the Skybed though, if they do my business will stay with AC/NZ

[Michael Morrison]

Yes I noticed that, hoping that V dont' go with the Skybed though, if they do my business will stay with AC/NZ

Having flown both QF and NZ's J products, I must say I prefer Skybed I.

Why? I can sit with my partner and have a conversation.... I can look out the window.... I also dont like the fact that with the NZ seat it only reclines a certain amount... At least with skybed it reclines from the chair to the bed...

[Marty H]

Having flown both QF and NZ's J products, I must say I prefer Skybed I.

Why? I can sit with my partner and have a conversation.... I can look out the window.... I also dont like the fact that with the NZ seat it only reclines a certain amount... At least with skybed it reclines from the chair to the bed...

Agree with that, I thought it was odd it was not full lie flat.

[Andrew M]

It is personal preference really, but on most of the flights I take I prefer sleep over conversation, and I prefer the more private suite feel that AC/NZ provide.

As I said each to their own :D

Looking forward to proper details and pictures of the V Australia setup though

[Shameel Kumar]

I recall someone saying that the Virgin/AC/NZ suites couldn't be used by V Australia!

Hey Andrew, are you able to remember the reasoning that person gave?
I faintly remember reading some 'copyright'-style issue, but I'm not sure that's much of an issue in reality since the likes of NZ, AC and as of late CX have all adopted the Herringbone seating arrangement.

I too am suprised that VA have not gone for the herringbone style for at least 2 reasons:
1. It's the lastest craze in terms of premium cabin configuration for 'semi top-teir airlines' who do not actually have a First Class cabin (CX still has F-class, so they're an exception)
2. Provide a further point of differentiation compared to QF (unless of course VA wants to play it safe for Business Class and keep it fairly similar to QF's Business Class offering)

It's also just a tad suprising that V Australia aren't exactly trying too hard to keep in-line with the rest of the Virgin brand. I mean, not a whole lot of similarity with VS's offering, no interline or codeshare agreement with Virgin America (hopefully soon). One would think they'd absolutely jump on Virgin bandwagon both in terms of added that flare and fun to further enhance V Australia's branding, and also to highly promote international connectivity (the Virgin brand is even strong in African airline industry, so very global reach).

I guess it sounds like a no-brainer, so it must just be in the pipelines (again, hopefully). :)

[Michael Morrison]

I mean, not a whole lot of similarity with VS's offering, no interline or codeshare agreement with Virgin America (hopefully soon).
I guess it sounds like a no-brainer, so it must just be in the pipelines (again, hopefully). :)

I think this will be a huge issue for VA....

They only have NW as an interline partner. They will need to have more partners and more reciprocal frequent flyer benefits to make this work.

[Shameel Kumar]

I think this will be a huge issue for VA....

They only have NW as an interline partner. They will need to have more partners and more reciprocal frequent flyer benefits to make this work.

Well I guess VA will be eagerly waiting to see how the DL/NW merger works out, because interlining with this 'mega-carrier' in the US market would be highly beneficial to VA. It's understandable that VX wasn't VA's first choice for a US partner due to their limited scope on the American continent.

The fact that VA's outlined their plans to fly to South Africa, this idea of 'doing it ourselves' may explain why VA haven't as yet created an agreement with VS. I mean, why wouldn't VA eventually hop on to the Kangaroo Route even if there's a load of capacity already on their? (pardon the puns :p )

An Australian-based airline should find enough of a market on this route, right? :confused:

[Michael Morrison]

re needing more partnerships.... I think they will struggle to take FF's away from QF without a broader program and reciprocal lounge/benefits for FF's.

IE... why would a QF gold/plat move to VA? Currently they can travel pretty extensively with Oneworld and get reciprocal lounge access etc etc.

Currently velocity gold just gets you access to Virgin Blue's lounges.

I think they will struggle to get the Y+/J cabins filled unless they have a better offerring for FF members.

[Andrew M]

Shameel Kumar:

I thought it was some copyright issue like you said but that's a faint memory now!

Agree with everything else that you have said, given the airline doesn't have a first class, very surprising that it has gone for the Skybed option.

Again we are getting the Skybed impression from one YouTube video. Granted it was a V Australia video and look pretty good! So I guess it's safe to say that the Skybed would be used.

Would have been a good differentiator having a J suite instead of the Skybed J seat.

No matter what seat they put, it will be VERY hard for V to grab the high end business customers from QF.